“Absolutely,” she confirmed without hesitation.

Taylor’s expression suddenly shifted, and she could see guilt creeping across his features. His voice became quieter, more uncertain. “I don’t deserve your kindness.”

Elliana could read the remorse written plainly across his face, and she let out a soft, understanding laugh. “I know all about the things you used to say about me in the family group chat. How you thought I was ugly and had no class, how I wasn’t nearly good enough for Cole. You were probably hoping he’d come to his senses and get rid of me as quickly as possible. Am I right?”

A wave of pure shock crashed over Taylor’s features. His face went pale and then flushed red with embarrassment. How could she possibly know about any of that? She hadn’t even been part of the Evans family group chat back then, let alone privy to their conversations.

While it was true that Jeff had been the most vocal critic, Taylor knew he’d been a close second in terms of harsh comments. If he’d had more free time instead of being constantly busy with his career, he probably would have been even more brutal in his assessments. The memory of his own cruelty made heat rise in his cheeks, and he felt completely mortified by his past behavior.

Elliana seemed to sense his discomfort, and her voice remained gentle and forgiving as she reached out to pat his shoulder reassuringly. “Hey, it’s completely understandable. If my brother had married someone I thought was completely beneath him, I wouldn’t have been thrilled either. You weren’t doing anything wrong—that was a perfectly normal reaction from someone who cares about their family. I’ve already forgiven Jeff for all his comments, so of course, I would forgive you. Just promise me you’ll be my biggest supporter from now on, and we’ll call it even.”

Taylor let out a surprised laugh. They were the same age, yet he felt completely outclassed by her insight and maturity. She still had a youthful, almost delicate face, but he couldn’t help but feel a profound respect for her. It made perfect sense now—the one Cole loved this deeply had to be someone truly extraordinary.

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As these thoughts were running through Taylor’s mind, Cole appeared at Elliana’s side. He glanced between them, taking in their relaxed conversation before focusing his attention on Taylor.

“How’s your throat holding up?” Cole asked with genuine concern.

“Much better now,” Taylor replied, though he found himself unable to meet Cole’s perceptive gaze. “I should probably go find a restroom.” Discover more novels at Find[?]ovel.net

Without waiting for a response, Taylor turned and quickly walked away. Elliana and Cole exchanged a meaningful look.

Emmanuel and Lance arrived just as Taylor disappeared down the hall.

“Cole, did you notice that something seemed off with Taylor tonight?” Emmanuel asked.

Cole nodded grimly. “I did notice. I have a feeling that whoever’s been orchestrating these problems isn’t finished with our family yet. I’m worried that Taylor might be their next target.”

Cole turned to face Lance, his expression becoming serious and focused. “I need you to keep a close eye on Taylor. Monitor everything he does, but make sure he doesn’t realize he’s being watched. The last thing we want is to alert our enemies.”

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